There’s something so satisfying about a perfectly grilled chicken breast, don’t you think? I fell head over heels for this Grilled Stuffed Chicken With Cream Sauce the first time I made it. The recipe was a delightful accident during one of my weekend cooking adventures, and now it’s a staple in my kitchen rotation. The way the tender chicken mingles with the creamy, cheesy stuffing and the rich cream sauce just makes my heart sing!
Every time I serve this dish, it brings back fond memories of family gatherings, where everyone would gather around the table, chatting and laughing, while plates piled high with good food filled the table. I’ve got to say, once you take a bite of this chicken, you’ll be transported to flavor town with every mouthful. Let’s dive into the details of this heartwarming recipe!
What’s in Grilled Stuffed Chicken With Cream Sauce?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! I love using these because they are lean yet maintain tenderness when cooked properly.
Fresh spinach: Full of vitamins and adds a vibrant green color to the stuffing.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These little nuggets provide a burst of tangy flavor that’s simply irresistible! I prefer the kind packed in oil, as they tend to be more flavorful.
Cream cheese: This creamy goodness is what helps bind the stuffing together and adds so much richness.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melted goodness that makes every bite stretchy and cheesy – what’s not to love?
Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this grated cheese intensifies the flavor and adds a lovely salty kick.
Garlic powder: Just a classic flavor enhancer; it’s a must for any chicken dish!
Onion powder: Another secret ingredient for that extra depth of flavor.
Cumin and paprika: These spices bring a warmth and depth that’s perfect for grilled dishes.
Olive oil: Helps with moisture and adds a subtle flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning!
Cooking spray: Ensures a non-stick grilling experience.
Fresh parsley: This beautiful herb isn’t just for looks; it adds a nice, fresh flavor to finish things off.
Heavy cream: A rich base for your creamy sauce—a little indulgence that brings everything together.
Is Grilled Stuffed Chicken With Cream Sauce Good for You?
Oh, let’s dive into the good stuff! This dish packs a protein punch with the chicken breast, making it a wonderful choice for a nourishing meal.
Spinach: This leafy green brings a truckload of vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and antioxidants. Who knew you could get so many nutrients from a delicious meal?
Sun-dried tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants and a good source of vitamins, they add not just flavor but also health benefits!
Cream cheese and heavy cream: While they do add richness, they are higher in calories and fat. Moderation is key, friends! You could always swap out the heavy cream for a lighter alternative if you’re watching your calories.
In my opinion, it’s all about balance and enjoying food that nourishes our bodies and souls!
Ingredients for Grilled Stuffed Chicken With Cream Sauce
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Cooking spray (for grilling)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cream Sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 people, so it’s perfect for a small gathering!
How to Make Grilled Stuffed Chicken With Cream Sauce?
1. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat and prepare it with cooking spray so nothing sticks. I swear by this step!
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is beautifully integrated.
3. Take each chicken breast and use a sharp knife to make a pocket in the thickest part, being careful not to cut all the way through—you could say we’re creating a little cheesy treasure chest!
4. Stuff each chicken breast with that delicious spinach and cheese mixture, pressing gently to seal the pocket. Secure with toothpicks if necessary. (I sometimes use my trusty kitchen twine for a fancier look!)
5. Lightly season both sides of the stuffed chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you fancy.
6. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through and the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). Don’t forget to give them a little love with those grill marks!
7. While the chicken is grilling, prepare the cream sauce. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and garlic powder, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in—trust me on this one!
9. Drizzle that luxurious cream sauce over the stuffed chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Delicious Tips for Grilled Stuffed Chicken
– If you want to switch things up, try adding different vegetables to the stuffing mix like bell peppers or mushrooms.
– You could also experiment with different cheeses, like goat cheese or feta, for a unique twist!
– Serving suggestions? This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables on the side.
So there you have it! I hope you give this Grilled Stuffed Chicken With Cream Sauce a whirl. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress and always evokes fond memories of gathering around the table. When you try it out, I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Happy cooking!